Goulburn Newbies Group offers connection for newcomers

In fact Goulburn Newbies Group is the moniker given to the social group formed earlier this year to connect the city's newcomers.

It's formation was prompted by some casual inquiries on another community group, and the benefits of the group have proved invaluable for the many members.

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One of those overseeing the newbie group Kerry-Anne Floros described it as "the best thing I have ever done."

She said it all began when someone posted on the Goulburn Community Noticeboard Facebook page in January stating that she had lived in the area for a year but still didn't know anyone.

Kerry-Anne said she was in a similar situation and decided to reach out, as did another newbie, Lindy Hooper.

"The three of us decided to catch up for a coffee the next day," she said.

And it was during that coffee catch-up that the Goulburn Newbie Group was born.

The formation of the group began with a call out on the Goulburn Community Noticeboard page which attracted an overwheling response.

"We then decided to individually respond to everyone who reached out to our message," Kerry-Anne said.

"We recieved 15 replies and we all went out for coffee."

The community noticeboard has continued to prove an invaluable resource for promoting the newbie group which now boasts 140 followers.

Meanwhile Kerry-Anne said the group itself had been well praised by members.

"We all say that we have saved each other," she said.

Kerry-Anne is quick to assure that the group is informal with no expectations on the members.

"Lindy looks after our Facebook page, while I organise something social every two to three weeks, but really anyone is welcome to suggest things to do," she said.

"We try to do different things. Sometimes we catch up for coffee, meet at the club or go to the theatre."

A suggestion by one member to attend a charity event proved such a hit that the group has decided to also continue a focus on supporting other similar activities.

"We filled two tables at the fundraising event, and after that night we decided to support other fundraisers," Kerry-Anne said.

While the group identifies as targeting people aged 45-plus, Kerry-Anne assures this is not a rigid requirement.

"Basically most of us are that age or above with grown children - we didn't think we would be of interest to younger people," she said.

However, she is quick to add that all newbies are welcome.

"We have some younger members, as well as couples and there are even some people that have been in the area for a little longer - more than a year," Kerry-Anne added.

"It is just an awesome group. I have met the best people."

The Goulburn Newbie Group can be accessed via its Facbook page www.facebook.com/groups/157061205892797/

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